What's Happening Across Maryland Racing

Maryland horsemen have emerged as meaningful beneficiaries of the collaborative dual-state stakes schedule and new bonus incentives, according to statistics covering the period from June 21 through August 23 of this year.

Live racing made a successful return to Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area for the first time since 2019 with six races on the flat on the renovated turf course and a large turnout from the public.

Anthony Farrior, Charles A. Frock and John Salzman Jr. topped the standings for the $20,000 Maryland State Fair Trainer Bonus program as the 7-day Timonium meet concluded Monday, Sept. 1.

The Maryland Jockey Club has welcomed Dr. John Connick, a native of Ireland with international equine experience, as its newest association veterinarian. Connick officially began his duties on August 27 at Laurel Park, during the Maryland State Fair at Timonium meet.

Make plans now to attend the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association’s Backstretch Appreciation Cookout, which is scheduled for Monday, Sept. 15, beginning at 1 p.m. under the tent on the apron at Laurel Park. The catered event will feature chicken, beef, pork, salads and special dishes from Hideaway Catering.

The Maryland Racing Commission Aug. 13 approved a proposed revision of the Thoroughbred claiming rule that was requested by The Maryland Jockey Club and endorsed by the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association.

The Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association, in partnership with MedStar Health and Adventist HealthCare LifeWork Strategies, will host its annual Health Fair on Tuesday, September 30, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the Recreation Room at Laurel Park.

The Maryland-Bred Out-of-State Owner and Developer Bonus Program proved its value in its first year, delivering $600,000 in bonuses to horsemen and breeders who raced Maryland-breds at Colonial Downs and Delaware Park between July 4 and August 16.

Live racing returns to the Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium for a seven-day meet beginning Friday, August 22, and running through Labor Day, Monday, September 1. The meet, known for its tight five-furlong oval and festive summer atmosphere, continues to be a popular and tradition-rich stop on the Maryland racing calendar.

Fair Hill is moving forward with its plan to offer Thoroughbred racing on its new turf course on Saturday, Aug. 30, and it will mark the first meet in six years at the Cecil County facility.